Description

Vernicia fordii, commonly known as tung tree, is an oil-bearing subtropical woody species in the spurge (Euphorbiaceae) family. Tung tree is widely grown in its native China and other countries for its valuable seed oils. Tung oil contains high levels of the conjugated triene fatty acid, α-eleostearic acid (α-ESA), a sustainable, environmentally friendly industrial fatty acid feedstock that is commonly used in the production of inks, dyes, resins and biodiesel. Some studies suggested that α-ESA has a potential role in human health including antitumor, antioxidative and antiobesity effects.